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Abstract:

A transmission is provided having an input member, an output member, four
planetary gear sets, a plurality of coupling members and a plurality of
torque transmitting devices. Each of the planetary gear sets includes a
sun gear member, a planet carrier member, and a ring gear member. The
torque transmitting devices include clutches and brakes arranged within a
transmission housing.

Claims:

1. A transmission comprising:an input member;an output member;a
transmission housing having a first wall, a second wall, and a third wall
extending between the first and second walls;a first, second, third and
fourth planetary gear set disposed within the transmission housing,
wherein the first planetary gear set is adjacent the first wall, the
second planetary gear set is adjacent the first planetary gear set, the
fourth planetary gear set is adjacent the second wall, and the third
planetary gear set is between the second and fourth planetary gear sets,
each planetary gear set having a sun gear member, a ring gear member, and
a planet carrier member supporting a plurality of planet gears each
configured to intermesh with both the sun gear member and the ring gear
member, wherein the input member is continuously interconnected with the
planet carrier member of the second planetary gear set, and the output
member is continuously interconnected with the planet carrier member of
the fourth planetary gear set and the planet carrier member of the third
planetary gear set, and wherein the ring gear member of the fourth
planetary gear set is permanently coupled to the planet carrier member of
the first planetary gear set;wherein the transmission housing has a first
area defined radially inward from an outer periphery of the planetary
gear sets and axially bounded by the first wall and the first planetary
gear set, a second area defined radially inward from the outer periphery
of the planetary gear sets and axially bounded by the first and second
planetary gear sets, a third area defined radially inward from the outer
periphery of the planetary gear sets and axially bounded by the second
and third planetary gear sets, a fourth area defined radially inward from
the outer periphery of the planetary gear sets and axially bounded by the
third and fourth planetary gear sets, a fifth area defined radially
inward from the outer periphery of the planetary gear sets and axially
bounded by the fourth planetary gear set and the second wall, and a sixth
area defined radially inward from the third wall and radially outward
from the outer periphery of the planetary gear sets and axially bounded
by the first wall and the second wall;a first intermediate membera first
clutch selectively engageable to interconnect the sun gear member of the
fourth planetary gear set to the planet carrier member of the second
planetary gear set;a second clutch selectively engageable to interconnect
the sun gear member of the fourth planetary gear set to the sun gear
member of the third planetary gear set and the ring gear member of the
second planetary gear set;a third clutch selectively engageable to
interconnect the sun gear member of the fourth planetary gear set to the
ring gear member of the third planetary gear set;a first brake
selectively engageable to interconnect the sun gear member of the first
planetary gear set and the sun gear member of the second planetary gear
set to the transmission housing;a second brake selectively engageable to
interconnect the ring gear member of the first planetary gear set to the
transmission housing;wherein the first clutch is located in at least one
of the third, fourth, and fifth areas, the second clutch is located in
the fourth area, the third clutch is located in at least one of the
fourth and sixth areas, the first brake is located in at least one of the
first, fifth, and sixth areas, and the second brake is located in at
least one of the first, fifth, and sixth areas; andwherein the clutches
and brakes are selectively engageable to establish at least eight forward
speed ratios and at least one reverse speed ratio between the input
member and the output member.

2. The transmission of claim 1 wherein the first clutch is located in the
third area, the second clutch is located in the fourth area, the third
clutch is located in the fourth area, the first brake is located in the
sixth area, and the second brake is located in the sixth area.

3. The transmission of claim 1 wherein the first clutch is located within
the third area.

4. The transmission of claim 1 wherein the first clutch is located within
the fourth area.

5. The transmission of claim 1 wherein the first clutch is located within
the fifth area.

6. The transmission of claim 1 wherein the third clutch is located within
the fourth area.

7. The transmission of claim 1 wherein the third clutch is located within
the sixth area.

8. The transmission of claim 1 wherein the first brake is located within
the first area.

9. The transmission of claim 1 wherein the first brake is located within
the fifth area.

10. The transmission of claim 1 wherein the first brake is located within
the sixth area.

11. The transmission of claim 1 wherein the second brake is located within
the first area.

12. The transmission of claim 1 wherein the second brake is located within
the fifth area.

13. The transmission of claim 1 wherein the second brake is located within
the sixth area.

14. A transmission comprising:an input member;an output member;a
transmission housing having a first wall, a second wall, and a third wall
extending between the first and second walls;a first, second, third and
fourth planetary gear set disposed within the transmission housing,
wherein the first planetary gear set is adjacent the first wall, the
second planetary gear set is adjacent the first planetary gear set, the
fourth planetary gear set is adjacent the second wall, and the third
planetary gear set is between the second and fourth planetary gear sets,
each planetary gear set having a sun gear member, a ring gear member, and
a planet carrier member supporting a plurality of planet gears each
configured to intermesh with both the sun gear member and the ring gear
member, wherein the input member is continuously interconnected with the
planet carrier member of the second planetary gear set, and the output
member is continuously interconnected with the planet carrier member of
the fourth planetary gear set and the planet carrier member of the third
planetary gear set, and wherein the ring gear member of the fourth
planetary gear set is permanently coupled to the planet carrier member of
the first planetary gear set;wherein the transmission housing has a first
area defined radially inward from an outer periphery of the planetary
gear sets and axially bounded by the first wall and the first planetary
gear set, a second area defined radially inward from the outer periphery
of the planetary gear sets and axially bounded by the first and second
planetary gear sets, a third area defined radially inward from the outer
periphery of the planetary gear sets and axially bounded by the second
and third planetary gear sets, a fourth area defined radially inward from
the outer periphery of the planetary gear sets and axially bounded by the
third and fourth planetary gear sets, a fifth area defined radially
inward from the outer periphery of the planetary gear sets and axially
bounded by the fourth planetary gear set and the second wall, and a sixth
area defined radially inward from the third wall and radially outward
from the outer periphery of the planetary gear sets and axially bounded
by the first wall and the second wall;a first clutch selectively
engageable to interconnect the sun gear member of the fourth planetary
gear set to the planet carrier member of the second planetary gear set;a
second clutch selectively engageable to interconnect the sun gear member
of the fourth planetary gear set to the sun gear member of the third
planetary gear set and the ring gear member of the second planetary gear
set;a third clutch selectively engageable to interconnect the sun gear
member of the fourth planetary gear set to the ring gear member of the
third planetary gear set;a first brake selectively engageable to
interconnect the sun gear member of the first planetary gear set and the
sun gear member of the second planetary gear set to the transmission
housing;a second brake selectively engageable to interconnect the ring
gear member of the first planetary gear set to the transmission
housing;wherein the first clutch is located in at least one of the second
and sixth areas, the second clutch is located in at least one of the
second, third, and sixth areas, the third clutch is located in at least
one of the third, fourth, and sixth areas, the first brake is located in
at least one of the first, fifth, and sixth areas, and the second brake
is located in at least one of the first, fifth, and sixth areas;
andwherein the clutches and brakes are selectively engageable to
establish at least eight forward speed ratios and at least one reverse
speed ratio between the input member and the output member.

15. The transmission of claim 14 wherein the first clutch is located
within the second area.

16. The transmission of claim 14 wherein the first clutch is located
within the sixth area.

17. The transmission of claim 14 wherein the second clutch is located
within the second area.

18. The transmission of claim 14 wherein the second clutch is located
within the third area.

19. The transmission of claim 14 wherein the second clutch is located
within the sixth area.

20. The transmission of claim 14 wherein the third clutch is located
within the third area.

21. The transmission of claim 14 wherein the third clutch is located
within the fourth area.

22. The transmission of claim 14 wherein the third clutch is located
within the sixth area.

23. The transmission of claim 14 wherein the first brake is located within
the first area.

24. The transmission of claim 14 wherein the first brake is located within
the fifth area.

25. The transmission of claim 14 wherein the first brake is located within
the sixth area.

26. The transmission of claim 14 wherein the second brake is located
within the first area.

27. The transmission of claim 14 wherein the second brake is located
within the fifth area.

28. The transmission of claim 14 wherein the second brake is located
within the sixth area.

29. A transmission comprising:an input member;an output member;a
transmission housing having a first wall, a second wall, and a third wall
extending between the first and second walls;a first, second, third and
fourth planetary gear set disposed within the transmission housing,
wherein the second planetary gear set is adjacent the first wall, the
third planetary gear set is adjacent the second planetary gear set, the
fourth planetary gear set is adjacent the second wall, and the first
planetary gear set is between the third and fourth planetary gear sets,
each planetary gear set having a sun gear member, a ring gear member, and
a planet carrier member supporting a plurality of planet gears each
configured to intermesh with both the sun gear member and the ring gear
member, wherein the input member is continuously interconnected with the
planet carrier member of the second planetary gear set, and the output
member is continuously interconnected with the planet carrier member of
the fourth planetary gear set and the planet carrier member of the third
planetary gear set, and wherein the ring gear member of the fourth
planetary gear set is permanently coupled to the planet carrier member of
the first planetary gear set;wherein the transmission housing has a first
area defined radially inward from an outer periphery of the planetary
gear sets and axially bounded by the first wall and the second planetary
gear set, a second area defined radially inward from the outer periphery
of the planetary gear sets and axially bounded by the second and third
planetary gear sets, a third area defined radially inward from the outer
periphery of the planetary gear sets and axially bounded by the third and
first planetary gear sets, a fourth area defined radially inward from the
outer periphery of the planetary gear sets and axially bounded by the
first and fourth planetary gear sets, a fifth area defined radially
inward from the outer periphery of the planetary gear sets and axially
bounded by the fourth planetary gear set and the second wall, and a sixth
area defined radially inward from the third wall and radially outward
from the outer periphery of the planetary gear sets and axially bounded
by the first wall and the second wall;a first clutch selectively
engageable to interconnect the sun gear member of the fourth planetary
gear set to the planet carrier member of the second planetary gear set;a
second clutch selectively engageable to interconnect the sun gear member
of the fourth planetary gear set to the sun gear member of the third
planetary gear set and the ring gear member of the second planetary gear
set;a third clutch selectively engageable to interconnect the sun gear
member of the fourth planetary gear set to the ring gear member of the
third planetary gear set;a first brake selectively engageable to
interconnect the sun gear member of the first planetary gear set and the
sun gear member of the second planetary gear set to the transmission
housing;a second brake selectively engageable to interconnect the ring
gear member of the first planetary gear set to the transmission
housing;wherein the first clutch is located in at least one of the first,
second, third, and sixth areas, the second clutch is located in at least
one of the first, second, third, and sixth areas, the third clutch is
located in at least one of the first, second, third, fourth, fifth, and
sixth areas, the first brake is located in at least one of the first,
third, fifth, and sixth areas, and the second brake is located in at
least one of the first, fourth, fifth, and sixth areas; andwherein the
clutches and brakes are selectively engageable to establish at least
eight forward speed ratios and at least one reverse speed ratio between
the input member and the output member.

30. The transmission of claim 29 wherein the first clutch is located in
the first area, the second clutch is located in the first area, the third
clutch is located in the third area, the first brake is located in the
sixth area, and the second brake is located in the sixth area.

31. The transmission of claim 29 wherein the first clutch is located
within the first area.

32. The transmission of claim 29 wherein the first clutch is located
within the second area.

33. The transmission of claim 29 wherein the first clutch is located
within the third area.

34. The transmission of claim 29 wherein the first clutch is located
within the sixth area.

35. The transmission of claim 29 wherein the second clutch is located
within the first area.

36. The transmission of claim 29 wherein the second clutch is located
within the second area.

37. The transmission of claim 29 wherein the second clutch is located
within the third area.

38. The transmission of claim 29 wherein the second clutch is located
within the sixth area.

39. The transmission of claim 29 wherein the third clutch is located
within the first area.

40. The transmission of claim 29 wherein the third clutch is located
within the second area.

41. The transmission of claim 29 wherein the third clutch is located
within the third area.

42. The transmission of claim 29 wherein the third clutch is located
within the fourth area.

43. The transmission of claim 29 wherein the third clutch is located
within the fifth area.

44. The transmission of claim 29 wherein the third clutch is located
within the sixth area.

45. The transmission of claim 29 wherein the first brake is located within
the first area.

46. The transmission of claim 29 wherein the first brake is located within
the third area.

47. The transmission of claim 29 wherein the first brake is located within
the fifth area.

48. The transmission of claim 29 wherein the first brake is located within
the sixth area.

49. The transmission of claim 29 wherein the second brake is located
within the first area.

50. The transmission of claim 29 wherein the second brake is located
within the fourth area.

51. The transmission of claim 29 wherein the second brake is located
within the fifth area.

52. The transmission of claim 29 wherein the second brake is located
within the sixth area.

53. A transmission comprising:an input member;an output member;a
transmission housing having a first wall, a second wall, and a third wall
extending between the first and second walls;a first, second, third and
fourth planetary gear set disposed within the transmission housing,
wherein the second planetary gear set is adjacent the first wall, the
first planetary gear set is adjacent the second planetary gear set, the
fourth planetary gear set is adjacent the second wall, and the third
planetary gear set is between the first and fourth planetary gear sets,
each planetary gear set having a sun gear member, a ring gear member, and
a planet carrier member supporting a plurality of planet gears each
configured to intermesh with both the sun gear member and the ring gear
member, wherein the input member is continuously interconnected with the
planet carrier member of the second planetary gear set, and the output
member is continuously interconnected with the planet carrier member of
the fourth planetary gear set and the planet carrier member of the third
planetary gear set, and wherein the ring gear member of the fourth
planetary gear set is permanently coupled to the planet carrier member of
the first planetary gear set;wherein the transmission housing has a first
area defined radially inward from an outer periphery of the planetary
gear sets and axially bounded by the first wall and the second planetary
gear set, a second area defined radially inward from the outer periphery
of the planetary gear sets and axially bounded by the second and first
planetary gear sets, a third area defined radially inward from the outer
periphery of the planetary gear sets and axially bounded by the first and
third planetary gear sets, a fourth area defined radially inward from the
outer periphery of the planetary gear sets and axially bounded by the
third and fourth planetary gear sets, a fifth area defined radially
inward from the outer periphery of the planetary gear sets and axially
bounded by the fourth planetary gear set and the second wall, and a sixth
area defined radially inward from the third wall and radially outward
from the outer periphery of the planetary gear sets and axially bounded
by the first wall and the second wall;a first clutch selectively
engageable to interconnect the sun gear member of the fourth planetary
gear set to the planet carrier member of the second planetary gear set;a
second clutch selectively engageable to interconnect the sun gear member
of the fourth planetary gear set to the sun gear member of the third
planetary gear set and the ring gear member of the second planetary gear
set;a third clutch selectively engageable to interconnect the sun gear
member of the fourth planetary gear set to the ring gear member of the
third planetary gear set;a first brake selectively engageable to
interconnect the sun gear member of the first planetary gear set and the
sun gear member of the second planetary gear set to the transmission
housing;a second brake selectively engageable to interconnect the ring
gear member of the first planetary gear set to the transmission
housing;wherein the first clutch is located in at least one of the first,
third, and sixth areas, the second clutch is located in at least one of
the first, third, and sixth areas, the third clutch is located in at
least one of the third, fourth, fifth, and sixth areas, the first brake
is located in at least one of the first, second, fifth, and sixth areas,
and the second brake is located in at least one of the first, second,
fifth, and sixth areas; andwherein the clutches and brakes are
selectively engageable to establish at least eight forward speed ratios
and at least one reverse speed ratio between the input member and the
output member.

54. The transmission of claim 53 wherein the first clutch is located in
the first area, the second clutch is located in the first area, the third
clutch is located in the third area, the first brake is located in the
sixth area, and the second brake is located in the sixth area.

55. The transmission of claim 53 wherein the first clutch is located in
the first area.

56. The transmission of claim 53 wherein the first clutch is located in
the third area.

57. The transmission of claim 53 wherein the first clutch is located in
the sixth area.

58. The transmission of claim 53 wherein the second clutch is located in
the first area.

59. The transmission of claim 53 wherein the second clutch is located in
the third area.

60. The transmission of claim 53 wherein the second clutch is located in
the sixth area.

61. The transmission of claim 53 wherein the third clutch is located in
the third area.

62. The transmission of claim 53 wherein the third clutch is located in
the fourth area.

63. The transmission of claim 53 wherein the third clutch is located in
the fifth area.

64. The transmission of claim 53 wherein the third clutch is located in
the sixth area.

65. The transmission of claim 53 wherein the first brake is located in the
first area.

66. The transmission of claim 53 wherein the first brake is located in the
second area.

67. The transmission of claim 53 wherein the first brake is located in the
fifth area.

68. The transmission of claim 53 wherein the first brake is located in the
sixth area.

69. The transmission of claim 53 wherein the second brake is located in
the first area.

70. The transmission of claim 53 wherein the second brake is located in
the second area.

71. The transmission of claim 53 wherein the second brake is located in
the fifth area.

72. The transmission of claim 53 wherein the second brake is located in
the sixth area.

73. A transmission comprising:an input member;an output member;a
transmission housing having a first wall, a second wall, and a third wall
extending between the first and second walls;a first, second, third and
fourth planetary gear set disposed within the transmission housing,
wherein the second planetary gear set is adjacent the first wall, the
first planetary gear set is adjacent the second planetary gear set, the
third planetary gear set is adjacent the second wall, and the fourth
planetary gear set is between the first and third planetary gear sets,
each planetary gear set having a sun gear member, a ring gear member, and
a planet carrier member supporting a plurality of planet gears each
configured to intermesh with both the sun gear member and the ring gear
member, wherein the input member is continuously interconnected with the
planet carrier member of the second planetary gear set, and the output
member is continuously interconnected with the planet carrier member of
the fourth planetary gear set and the planet carrier member of the third
planetary gear set, and wherein the ring gear member of the fourth
planetary gear set is permanently coupled to the planet carrier member of
the first planetary gear set;wherein the transmission housing has a first
area defined radially inward from an outer periphery of the planetary
gear sets and axially bounded by the first wall and the second planetary
gear set, a second area defined radially inward from the outer periphery
of the planetary gear sets and axially bounded by the second and first
planetary gear sets, a third area defined radially inward from the outer
periphery of the planetary gear sets and axially bounded by the first and
fourth planetary gear sets, a fourth area defined radially inward from
the outer periphery of the planetary gear sets and axially bounded by the
fourth and third planetary gear sets, a fifth area defined radially
inward from the outer periphery of the planetary gear sets and axially
bounded by the third planetary gear set and the second wall, and a sixth
area defined radially inward from the third wall and radially outward
from the outer periphery of the planetary gear sets and axially bounded
by the first wall and the second wall;a first clutch selectively
engageable to interconnect the sun gear member of the fourth planetary
gear set to the planet carrier member of the second planetary gear set;a
second clutch selectively engageable to interconnect the sun gear member
of the fourth planetary gear set to the sun gear member of the third
planetary gear set and the ring gear member of the second planetary gear
set;a third clutch selectively engageable to interconnect the sun gear
member of the fourth planetary gear set to the ring gear member of the
third planetary gear set;a first brake selectively engageable to
interconnect the sun gear member of the first planetary gear set and the
sun gear member of the second planetary gear set to the transmission
housing;a second brake selectively engageable to interconnect the ring
gear member of the first planetary gear set to the transmission
housing;wherein the first clutch is located in at least one of the first,
second, third, and sixth areas, the second clutch is located in at least
one of the first, second, third, and sixth areas, the third clutch is
located in at least one of the fourth, fifth, and sixth areas, the first
brake is located in at least one of the first, second, fifth, and sixth
areas, and the second brake is located in at least one of the first,
second, fifth, and sixth areas; andwherein the clutches and brakes are
selectively engageable to establish at least eight forward speed ratios
and at least one reverse speed ratio between the input member and the
output member.

74. The transmission of claim 73 wherein the first clutch is located in
the first area, the second clutch is located in the first area, the third
clutch is located in the fourth area, the first brake is located in the
sixth area, and the second brake is located in the sixth area.

75. The transmission of claim 73 wherein the first clutch is located in
the first area.

76. The transmission of claim 73 wherein the first clutch is located in
the second area.

77. The transmission of claim 73 wherein the first clutch is located in
the third area.

78. The transmission of claim 73 wherein the first clutch is located in
the sixth area.

79. The transmission of claim 73 wherein the second clutch is located in
the first area.

80. The transmission of claim 73 wherein the second clutch is located in
the second area.

81. The transmission of claim 73 wherein the second clutch is located in
the third area.

82. The transmission of claim 73 wherein the second clutch is located in
the sixth area.

83. The transmission of claim 73 wherein the third clutch is located in
the fourth area.

84. The transmission of claim 73 wherein the third clutch is located in
the fifth area.

85. The transmission of claim 73 wherein the third clutch is located in
the sixth area.

86. The transmission of claim 73 wherein the first brake is located in the
first area.

87. The transmission of claim 73 wherein the first brake is located in the
second area.

88. The transmission of claim 73 wherein the first brake is located in the
fifth area.

89. The transmission of claim 73 wherein the first brake is located in the
sixth area.

90. The transmission of claim 73 wherein the second brake is located in
the first area.

91. The transmission of claim 73 wherein the second brake is located in
the second area.

92. The transmission of claim 73 wherein the second brake is located in
the fifth area.

93. The transmission of claim 73 wherein the second brake is located in
the sixth area.

94. A transmission comprising:an input member;an output member;a
transmission housing having a first wall, a second wall, and a third wall
extending between the first and second walls;a first, second, third and
fourth planetary gear set disposed within the transmission housing,
wherein the third planetary gear set is adjacent the first wall, the
second planetary gear set is adjacent the third planetary gear set, the
fourth planetary gear set is adjacent the second wall, and the first
planetary gear set is between the second and fourth planetary gear sets,
each planetary gear set having a sun gear member, a ring gear member, and
a planet carrier member supporting a plurality of planet gears each
configured to intermesh with both the sun gear member and the ring gear
member, wherein the input member is continuously interconnected with the
planet carrier member of the second planetary gear set, and the output
member is continuously interconnected with the planet carrier member of
the fourth planetary gear set and the planet carrier member of the third
planetary gear set, and wherein the ring gear member of the fourth
planetary gear set is permanently coupled to the planet carrier member of
the first planetary gear set;wherein the transmission housing has a first
area defined radially inward from an outer periphery of the planetary
gear sets and axially bounded by the first wall and the third planetary
gear set, a second area defined radially inward from the outer periphery
of the planetary gear sets and axially bounded by the third and second
planetary gear sets, a third area defined radially inward from the outer
periphery of the planetary gear sets and axially bounded by the second
and first planetary gear sets, a fourth area defined radially inward from
the outer periphery of the planetary gear sets and axially bounded by the
first and fourth planetary gear sets, a fifth area defined radially
inward from the outer periphery of the planetary gear sets and axially
bounded by the fourth planetary gear set and the second wall, and a sixth
area defined radially inward from the third wall and radially outward
from the outer periphery of the planetary gear sets and axially bounded
by the first wall and the second wall;a first clutch selectively
engageable to interconnect the sun gear member of the fourth planetary
gear set to the planet carrier member of the second planetary gear set;a
second clutch selectively engageable to interconnect the sun gear member
of the fourth planetary gear set to the sun gear member of the third
planetary gear set and the ring gear member of the second planetary gear
set;a third clutch selectively engageable to interconnect the sun gear
member of the fourth planetary gear set to the ring gear member of the
third planetary gear set;a first brake selectively engageable to
interconnect the sun gear member of the first planetary gear set and the
sun gear member of the second planetary gear set to the transmission
housing;a second brake selectively engageable to interconnect the ring
gear member of the first planetary gear set to the transmission
housing;wherein the first clutch is located in at least one of the first,
second, and sixth areas, the second clutch is located in at least one of
the first, second, and sixth areas, the third clutch is located in at
least one of the first, second, and sixth areas, the first brake is
located in at least one of the first, third, fifth, and sixth areas, and
the second brake is located in at least one of the first, fifth, and
sixth areas; andwherein the clutches and brakes are selectively
engageable to establish at least eight forward speed ratios and at least
one reverse speed ratio between the input member and the output member.

95. The transmission of claim 94 wherein the first clutch is located in
the sixth area, the second clutch is located in the sixth area, the third
clutch is located in the first area, the first brake is located in the
sixth area, and the second brake is located in the sixth area.

96. The transmission of claim 94 wherein the first clutch is located in
the first area.

97. The transmission of claim 94 wherein the first clutch is located in
the second area.

98. The transmission of claim 94 wherein the first clutch is located in
the sixth area.

99. The transmission of claim 94 wherein the second clutch is located in
the first area.

100. The transmission of claim 94 wherein the second clutch is located in
the second area.

101. The transmission of claim 94 wherein the second clutch is located in
the sixth area.

102. The transmission of claim 94 wherein the third clutch is located in
the first area.

103. The transmission of claim 94 wherein the third clutch is located in
the second area.

104. The transmission of claim 94 wherein the third clutch is located in
the sixth area.

105. The transmission of claim 94 wherein the first brake is located in
the first area.

106. The transmission of claim 94 wherein the first brake is located in
the third area.

107. The transmission of claim 94 wherein the first brake is located in
the fifth area.

108. The transmission of claim 94 wherein the first brake is located in
the sixth area.

109. The transmission of claim 94 wherein the second brake is located in
the first area.

110. The transmission of claim 94 wherein the second brake is located in
the fifth area.

111. The transmission of claim 94 wherein the second brake is located in
the sixth area.

112. A transmission comprising:an input member;an output member;a
transmission housing having a first wall, a second wall, and a third wall
extending between the first and second walls;a first, second, third and
fourth planetary gear set disposed within the transmission housing,
wherein the third planetary gear set is adjacent the first wall, the
fourth planetary gear set is adjacent the third planetary gear set, the
first planetary gear set is adjacent the second wall, and the second
planetary gear set is between the fourth and first planetary gear sets,
each planetary gear set having a sun gear member, a ring gear member, and
a planet carrier member supporting a plurality of planet gears each
configured to intermesh with both the sun gear member and the ring gear
member, wherein the input member is continuously interconnected with the
planet carrier member of the second planetary gear set, and the output
member is continuously interconnected with the planet carrier member of
the fourth planetary gear set and the planet carrier member of the third
planetary gear set, and wherein the ring gear member of the fourth
planetary gear set is permanently coupled to the planet carrier member of
the first planetary gear set;wherein the transmission housing has a first
area defined radially inward from an outer periphery of the planetary
gear sets and axially bounded by the first wall and the third planetary
gear set, a second area defined radially inward from the outer periphery
of the planetary gear sets and axially bounded by the third and fourth
planetary gear sets, a third area defined radially inward from the outer
periphery of the planetary gear sets and axially bounded by the fourth
and second planetary gear sets, a fourth area defined radially inward
from the outer periphery of the planetary gear sets and axially bounded
by the second and first planetary gear sets, a fifth area defined
radially inward from the outer periphery of the planetary gear sets and
axially bounded by the first planetary gear set and the second wall, and
a sixth area defined radially inward from the third wall and radially
outward from the outer periphery of the planetary gear sets and axially
bounded by the first wall and the second wall;a first clutch selectively
engageable to interconnect the sun gear member of the fourth planetary
gear set to the planet carrier member of the second planetary gear set;a
second clutch selectively engageable to interconnect the sun gear member
of the fourth planetary gear set to the sun gear member of the third
planetary gear set and the ring gear member of the second planetary gear
set;a third clutch selectively engageable to interconnect the sun gear
member of the fourth planetary gear set to the ring gear member of the
third planetary gear set;a first brake selectively engageable to
interconnect the sun gear member of the first planetary gear set and the
sun gear member of the second planetary gear set to the transmission
housing;a second brake selectively engageable to interconnect the ring
gear member of the first planetary gear set to the transmission
housing;wherein the first clutch is located in at least one of the first,
second, or sixth areas, the second clutch is located in at least one of
the first, second, and sixth areas, the third clutch is located in at
least one of the first, second, and sixth areas, the first brake is
located in at least one of the first, fourth, fifth, and sixth areas, and
the second brake is located in at least one of the first, fifth, and
sixth areas; andwherein the clutches and brakes are selectively
engageable to establish at least eight forward speed ratios and at least
one reverse speed ratio between the input member and the output member.

113. The transmission of claim 112 wherein the first clutch is located in
the second area, the second clutch is located in the second area, the
third clutch is located in the second area, the first brake is located in
the sixth area, and the second brake is located in the fifth area.

114. The transmission of claim 112 wherein the first clutch is located in
the first area.

115. The transmission of claim 112 wherein the first clutch is located in
the second area.

116. The transmission of claim 112 wherein the first clutch is located in
the sixth area.

117. The transmission of claim 112 wherein the second clutch is located in
the first area.

118. The transmission of claim 112 wherein the second clutch is located in
the second area.

119. The transmission of claim 112 wherein the second clutch is located in
the sixth area.

120. The transmission of claim 112 wherein the third clutch is located in
the first area.

121. The transmission of claim 112 wherein the third clutch is located in
the second area.

122. The transmission of claim 112 wherein the third clutch is located in
the sixth area.

123. The transmission of claim 112 wherein the first brake is located in
the first area.

124. The transmission of claim 112 wherein the first brake is located in
the fourth area.

125. The transmission of claim 112 wherein the first brake is located in
the fifth area.

126. The transmission of claim 112 wherein the first brake is located in
the sixth area.

127. The transmission of claim 112 wherein the second brake is located in
the first area.

128. The transmission of claim 112 wherein the second brake is located in
the fifth area.

129. The transmission of claim 112 wherein the second brake is located in
the sixth area.

Description:

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001]This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application
No. 60/895,411, filed on Mar. 16, 2007. The disclosure of the above
application is incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD

[0002]The invention relates generally to a multiple speed transmission
having a plurality of planetary gear sets and a plurality of torque
transmitting devices and more particularly to a transmission having eight
or more speeds, four planetary gear sets and a plurality of torque
transmitting devices.

BACKGROUND

[0003]The statements in this section merely provide background information
related to the present disclosure and may or may not constitute prior
art.

[0004]A typical multiple speed transmission uses a combination of a
plurality of torque transmitting mechanisms, planetary gear arrangements
and fixed interconnections to achieve a plurality of gear ratios. The
number and physical arrangement of the planetary gear sets, generally,
are dictated by packaging, cost and desired speed ratios.

[0005]While current transmissions achieve their intended purpose, the need
for new and improved transmission configurations which exhibit improved
performance, especially from the standpoints of efficiency,
responsiveness and smoothness and improved packaging, primarily reduced
size and weight, is essentially constant. Accordingly, there is a need
for an improved, cost-effective, compact multiple speed transmission.

SUMMARY

[0006]A transmission is provided having an input member, an output member,
a plurality of planetary gear sets, and a plurality of
torque-transmitting mechanisms. The plurality of planetary gear sets each
have a sun gear member, a planetary carrier member, and a ring gear
member.

[0007]In one aspect of the present invention, four of the gear sets are
simple planetary gear sets.

[0008]In another aspect of the present invention, two of the plurality of
torque transmitting mechanisms are brakes.

[0009]In another aspect of the present invention, three of the torque
transmitting mechanisms are friction clutches.

[0010]Further areas of applicability will become apparent from the
description provided herein. It should be understood that the description
and specific examples are intended for purposes of illustration only and
are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.

DRAWINGS

[0011]The drawings described herein are for illustration purposes only and
are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure in any way.

[0012]FIG. 1A is a schematic diagram of a transmission according to the
principles of the present invention;

[0013]FIG. 1B is a chart showing feasible locations of the torque
transmitting devices for the arrangement of the transmission shown in
FIG. 1A;

[0014]FIG. 1C is a schematic diagram of another arrangement of the
transmission according to the principles of the present invention;

[0015]FIG. 1D is a chart showing feasible locations of the torque
transmitting devices for the arrangement of the transmission shown in
FIG. 1C;

[0016]FIG. 2A is a schematic diagram of still another arrangement of the
transmission according to the principles of the present invention;

[0017]FIG. 2B is a chart showing feasible locations of the torque
transmitting devices for the arrangement of the transmission shown in
FIG. 2A;

[0018]FIG. 3A is a schematic diagram of still another arrangement of the
transmission according to the principles of the present invention;

[0019]FIG. 3B is a chart showing feasible locations of the torque
transmitting devices for the arrangement of the transmission shown in
FIG. 3A;

[0020]FIG. 4A is a schematic diagram of still another arrangement of the
transmission according to the principles of the present invention;

[0021]FIG. 4B is a chart showing feasible locations of the torque
transmitting devices for the arrangement of the transmission shown in
FIG. 4A;

[0022]FIG. 5A is a schematic diagram of still another arrangement of the
transmission according to the principles of the present invention;

[0023]FIG. 5B is a chart showing feasible locations of the torque
transmitting devices for the arrangement of the transmission shown in
FIG. 5A;

[0024]FIG. 6A is a schematic diagram of still another arrangement of the
transmission according to the principles of the present invention;

[0025]FIG. 6B is a chart showing feasible locations of the torque
transmitting devices for the arrangement of the transmission shown in
FIG. 6A;

[0026]FIG. 7A is a schematic diagram of still another arrangement of the
transmission according to the principles of the present invention; and

[0027]FIG. 7B is a chart showing feasible locations of the torque
transmitting devices for the arrangement of the transmission shown in
FIG. 7A.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0028]The following description is merely exemplary in nature and is not
intended to limit the present disclosure, application, or uses.

[0029]Referring now to FIG. 1A, an embodiment of a multi-speed or eight
speed transmission is generally indicated by reference number 10. The
transmission 10 is illustrated as a rear-wheel drive or longitudinal
transmission, though various other types of transmission configurations
may be employed. The transmission 10 includes a transmission housing 11,
an input shaft or member 12, and an output shaft or member 14. The input
member 12 is continuously connected to an engine (not shown) or to a
turbine of a torque converter (not shown). The output member 14 is
continuously connected with a final drive unit (not shown) or transfer
case (not shown).

[0030]The transmission 10 includes a first planetary gear set 16, a second
planetary gear set 18, a third planetary gear set 20, and a fourth
planetary gear set 22. The planetary gear sets 16, 18, 20 and 22 are
connected between the input member 12 and the output member 14. In a
preferred embodiment of the present invention, the planetary gear set 16
includes a sun gear member 24, a ring gear member 26, and a planet
carrier member 28 that rotatably supports a set of planet or pinion gears
30 (only one of which is shown). The pinion gears 30 are configured to
intermesh with the sun gear member 24 and the ring gear member 26. The
sun gear member 24 is connected for common rotation with a first shaft or
intermediate member 32 and a second shaft or intermediate member 34. It
should be appreciated that the first intermediate member 32 is connected
for common rotation with the second intermediate member 34 and that the
intermediate members 32 and 34 may form one single shaft or multiple
shafts through one or more members of the planetary gear sets, as seen
throughout the several views. The ring gear member 26 is connected for
common rotation with a third shaft or intermediate member 36. The planet
carrier member 28 is connected for common rotation with a fourth shaft or
intermediate member 38.

[0031]The planetary gear set 18 includes a sun gear member 42, a ring gear
member 44, and a planet carrier member 46 that rotatably supports a set
of planet or pinion gears 48. The pinion gears 48 are configured to
intermesh with the sun gear member 42 and the ring gear member 44. The
sun gear member 42 is connected for common rotation with the second
intermediate member 34. The ring gear member 44 is connected for common
rotation with a fifth shaft or intermediate member 50. The planet carrier
member 46 is connected for common rotation with the input member 12.

[0032]The planetary gear set 20 includes a sun gear member 52, a ring gear
member 54, and a carrier member 56 that rotatably supports a set of
planet or pinion gears 58. The pinion gears 58 are configured to
intermesh with the sun gear member 52 and the ring gear member 54. The
sun gear member 52 is connected for common rotation with the fifth shaft
or intermediate member 50 and with a sixth shaft or intermediate member
51. It should be appreciated that the fifth intermediate member 50 is
connected for common rotation with the sixth intermediate member 51 and
that the intermediate members 50 and 51 may form one single shaft or
multiple shafts through one or more members of the planetary gear sets,
as seen throughout the several views. The ring gear member 54 is
connected for common rotation with a seventh shaft or intermediate member
60. The planet carrier member 56 is connected for common rotation with an
eighth shaft or intermediate member 62. It should be appreciated that the
eighth intermediate member 62 is connected for common rotation with the
output member 14 and that the eighth intermediate members 62 and the
output member 14 may form one single shaft or multiple shafts through one
or more members of the planetary gear sets, as seen throughout the
several views.

[0033]The planetary gear set 22 includes a sun gear member 72, a ring gear
member 74, and a planet carrier member 76 that rotatably supports a set
of planet or pinion gears 78. The pinion gears 78 are configured to
intermesh with the sun gear member 72 and the ring gear member 74. The
sun gear member 72 is connected for common rotation with a ninth shaft or
intermediate member 64 and a tenth shaft or intermediate member 66. It
should be appreciated that the ninth intermediate member 64 is connected
for common rotation with the tenth intermediate member 66 and that the
intermediate members 64 and 66 may form one single shaft or multiple
shafts through one or more members of the planetary gear sets, as seen
throughout the several views. The ring gear member 74 is connected for
common rotation with the fourth intermediate member 38. The planet
carrier member 76 is connected for common rotation with the output member
14 and with the eighth intermediate member 62.

[0034]The transmission 10 includes a variety of torque-transmitting
mechanisms or devices including a first intermediate clutch C1, a second
intermediate clutch C2, a third intermediate clutch C3, a first brake B1
and a second brake B2. The first intermediate clutch C1 is selectively
engagable to connect the input member 12 to the tenth intermediate member
66. Alternatively, the first intermediate clutch C1 may be connected to
the input member 12 through the planet carrier member 46, as seen
throughout the several views. The second intermediate clutch C2 is
selectively engagable to connect the sixth intermediate member 51 to the
ninth intermediate member 64. The third intermediate clutch C3 is
selectively engagable to connect the seventh intermediate member 60 to
the ninth intermediate member 64. The brake B1 is selectively engagable
to connect the first intermediate member 32 to the transmission housing
11 to restrict rotation of the first intermediate member 32 relative to
the transmission housing 11. Finally, the brake B2 is selectively
engagable to connect the third intermediate member 36 to the transmission
housing 11 to restrict rotation of the third intermediate member 36
relative to the transmission housing 11.

[0035]The transmission 10 is capable of transmitting torque from the input
member 12 to the output member 14 in at least eight forward torque ratios
and one reverse torque ratio. Each of the forward torque ratios and the
reverse torque ratio are attained by engagement of one or more of the
torque-transmitting mechanisms (i.e. first intermediate clutch C1, second
intermediate clutch C2, third intermediate clutch C3, brake B1 and brake
B2). Those skilled in the art will readily understand that a different
speed ratio is associated with each torque ratio. Thus, eight forward
speed ratios may be attained by the transmission 10.

[0036]The transmission housing 11 includes a first end wall 102, a second
end wall 104, and a third wall 106. The third wall 106 interconnects
between the first and second end walls 102 and 104 to provide a space or
cavity 108 in which planetary gear sets 16, 18, 20, and 22 and the
torque-transmitting mechanisms C1, C2, C3, B1, and B2 are located.
Further, the cavity 108 has a plurality of areas or Zones A, B, C, D, E,
and F in which the plurality of torque transmitting mechanisms C1, C2,
C3, B1, and B2 will be specifically positioned, in accordance with the
preferred embodiments of the present invention.

[0037]As shown in FIG. 1A and throughout the several views, Zone A is
defined by the area or space bounded: axially on the left by the first
end wall 102, on the right by planetary gear set 16, radially inward by a
reference line "L" which is a longitudinal line that is axially aligned
with the input shaft 12, and radially outward by a reference line "M"
which is a longitudinal line that extends adjacent an outer diameter or
outer periphery of the planetary gear sets 16, 18, 20, and 22. While
reference line "M" is illustrated as a straight line throughout the
several views, it should be appreciated that reference line "M" follows
the outer periphery of the planetary gear sets 16, 18, 20, and 22, and
accordingly may be stepped or non-linear depending on the location of the
outer periphery of each of the planetary gear sets 16, 18, 20, and 22.
Zone B is defined by the area bounded: axially on the left by planetary
gear set 16, axially on the right by the planetary gear set 18, radially
outward by reference line "M", and radially inward by reference line "L".
Zone C is defined by the area bounded: axially on the left by the
planetary gear set 18, axially on the right by the planetary gear set 20,
radially outward by reference line "M", and radially inward by reference
line "L". Zone D is defined by the area bounded: axially on the left by
the planetary gear set 20, axially on the right by the planetary gear set
22, radially outward by reference line "M", and radially inward by
reference line "L". Zone E is defined by the area bounded: axially on the
left by the planetary gear set 22, axially on the right by the second end
wall 104, radially outward by reference line "M", and radially inward by
reference line "L". Zone F is defined by the area bounded: axially on the
left by the first end wall 102, axially on the right by the second end
wall 104, radially inward by reference line "M" and radially outward by
the third wall 106. As will be described and illustrated hereinafter,
planetary gear sets 16, 18, 20, and 22 will change positions within the
transmission cavity 108, however, the Zones described above will not
change and will remain the same as shown throughout the Figures.

[0038]In the arrangement of the transmission 10 shown in FIG. 1A, the
planetary gear sets 16,18, 20, and 22 are longitudinally arranged in the
following order from left to right: 16-18-20-22. Specifically, the
planetary gear set 16 is disposed closest to the wall 102, the planetary
gear set 22 is disposed closest to the wall 104, the planetary gear set
18 is adjacent the planetary gear set 16, and the planetary gear set 20
is disposed between the planetary gear sets 18 and 22. The
torque-transmitting mechanisms are intentionally located within specific
Zones in order to provide advantages in overall transmission size,
packaging efficiency, and reduced manufacturing complexity. In the
particular example shown in FIG. 1A, the torque-transmitting mechanism C1
is disposed within Zone C, the torque-transmitting mechanisms C2 and C3
are disposed within Zone D, and the torque-transmitting mechanisms B1 and
B2 are disposed within Zone F.

[0039]However, the present invention contemplates other embodiments where
the torque-transmitting mechanisms C1, C2, C3, B1, and B2 are disposed in
the other Zones. The feasible locations of the torque-transmitting
devices C1, C2, C3, B1, and B2 relative to the Zones are illustrated in
the chart shown in FIG. 1B. An "X" in the chart indicates that the
present invention contemplates locating the particular
torque-transmitting device in any of the referenced Zones.

[0040]With reference to FIG. 1C, an alternate embodiment of the
multi-speed transmission is indicated by reference number 10B. The
transmission 10B includes the planetary gear sets 16, 18, 20, and 22 and
the torque-transmitting mechanisms C1, C2, C3, B1, and B2. The various
components and connecting shafts that are identical with the transmission
10 in FIG. 1A have the same numerical designation.

[0041]The transmission 10B includes the planetary gear sets 16, 18, 20,
and 22 longitudinally arranged identically to the arrangement shown in
FIG. 1A. However, in the particular example shown in FIG. 1C, the
torque-transmitting mechanisms C1 and C2 are disposed within Zone B. As
in the previous embodiment, the torque-transmitting mechanism C3 is
disposed within Zone D and the torque-transmitting mechanisms B1 and B2
are disposed within Zone F.

[0042]Additionally, the present invention contemplates other embodiments
of transmission 10B where the torque-transmitting mechanisms C1, C2, C3,
B1, and B2 are disposed in the other Zones. The feasible locations of the
torque-transmitting devices C1, C2, C3, B1, and B2 relative to the Zones
are illustrated in the chart shown in FIG. 1D. An "X" in the chart
indicates that the present invention contemplates locating the particular
torque-transmitting device in any of the referenced Zones.

[0043]Turning now to FIG. 2A, still another embodiment of the multi-speed
transmission is indicated by reference number 200. The transmission 200
includes the planetary gear sets 16, 18, 20, and 22 and the
torque-transmitting mechanisms C1, C2, C3, B1, and B2. The various
components and connecting shafts that are identical with the transmission
10 in FIG. 1A have the same numerical designation in FIG. 2A.

[0044]The transmission 200 includes the planetary gear sets 16, 18, 20,
and 22 longitudinally arranged in the following order from left to right:
18-20-16-22. Specifically, the planetary gear set 18 is disposed closest
to the wall 102, the planetary gear set 22 is disposed closest to the
wall 104, the planetary gear set 20 is adjacent the planetary gear set
18, and the planetary gear set 16 is disposed between the planetary gear
sets 20 and 22. The torque-transmitting mechanisms are intentionally
located within specific Zones in order to provide advantages in overall
transmission size, packaging efficiency, and reduced manufacturing
complexity. In the particular example shown in FIG. 2A, the
torque-transmitting mechanisms C1 and C2 are disposed within Zone A, the
torque-transmitting mechanism C3 is disposed within Zone C, and the
torque-transmitting mechanisms B1 and B2 are disposed within Zone F.

[0045]However, the present invention contemplates other embodiments of the
transmission 200 where the torque-transmitting mechanisms C1, C2, C3, B1,
and B2 are disposed in the other Zones. The feasible locations of the
torque-transmitting devices C1, C2, C3, B1, and B2 relative to the Zones
are illustrated in the chart shown in FIG. 2B. An "X" in the chart
indicates that the present invention contemplates locating the particular
torque-transmitting device in any of the referenced Zones.

[0046]With reference to FIG. 3A, still another embodiment of the
multi-speed transmission is indicated by reference number 300. The
transmission 300 includes the planetary gear sets 16, 18, 20, and 22 and
the torque-transmitting mechanisms C1, C2, C3, B1, and B2. The various
components and connecting shafts that are identical with the transmission
10 in FIG. 1A have the same numerical designation in FIG. 3A.

[0047]The transmission 300 includes the planetary gear sets 16, 18, 20,
and 22 longitudinally arranged identically to the arrangement shown in
FIG. 2A. However, the input shaft 12 is arranged such that it crosses the
boundary between Zones A and F. In the particular example shown in FIG.
3A, the torque-transmitting mechanisms C1 and C2 are disposed within Zone
A, the torque-transmitting mechanism C3 is disposed within Zone C, and
the torque-transmitting mechanisms B1 and B2 are disposed within Zone F.

[0048]However, the present invention contemplates other embodiments of the
transmission 300 where the torque-transmitting mechanisms C1, C2, C3, B1,
and B2 are disposed in the other Zones. The feasible locations of the
torque-transmitting devices C1, C2, C3, B1, and B2 relative to the Zones
are illustrated in the chart shown in FIG. 3B. An "X" in the chart
indicates that the present invention contemplates locating the particular
torque-transmitting device in any of the referenced Zones.

[0049]With reference to FIG. 4A, still another embodiment of the
multi-speed transmission is indicated by reference number 400. The
transmission 400 includes the planetary gear sets 16, 18, 20, and 22 and
the torque-transmitting mechanisms C1, C2, C3, B1, and B2. The various
components and connecting shafts that are identical with the transmission
10 in FIG. 1A have the same numerical designation in FIG. 4A.

[0050]The transmission 400 includes the planetary gear sets 16, 18, 20,
and 22 longitudinally arranged in the following order from left to right:
18-16-20-22. Specifically, the planetary gear set 18 is disposed closest
to the wall 102, the planetary gear set 22 is disposed closest to the
wall 104, the planetary gear set 16 is adjacent the planetary gear set
18, and the planetary gear set 20 is disposed between the planetary gear
sets 16 and 22. The torque-transmitting mechanisms are intentionally
located within specific Zones in order to provide advantages in overall
transmission size, packaging efficiency, and reduced manufacturing
complexity. In the particular example shown in FIG. 4A, the
torque-transmitting mechanisms C1 and C2 are disposed within Zone A, the
torque-transmitting mechanism C3 is disposed within Zone C, and the
torque-transmitting mechanisms B1 and B2 are disposed within Zone F.

[0051]However, the present invention contemplates other embodiments of the
transmission 400 where the torque-transmitting mechanisms C1, C2, C3, B1,
and B2 are disposed in the other Zones. The feasible locations of the
torque-transmitting devices C1, C2, C3, B1, and B2 relative to the Zones
are illustrated in the chart shown in FIG. 4B. An "X" in the chart
indicates that the present invention contemplates locating the particular
torque-transmitting device in any of the referenced Zones.

[0052]With reference to FIG. 5A, still another embodiment of the
multi-speed transmission is indicated by reference number 500. The
transmission 500 includes the planetary gear sets 16, 18, 20, and 22 and
the torque-transmitting mechanisms C1, C2, C3, B1, and B2. The various
components and connecting shafts that are identical with the transmission
10 in FIG. 1A have the same numerical designation in FIG. 5A.

[0053]The transmission 500 includes the planetary gear sets 16, 18, 20,
and 22 longitudinally arranged in the following order from left to right:
18-16-22-20. Specifically, the planetary gear set 18 is disposed closest
to the wall 102, the planetary gear set 20 is disposed closest to the
wall 104, the planetary gear set 16 is adjacent the planetary gear set
18, and the planetary gear set 22 is disposed between the planetary gear
sets 16 and 20. The torque-transmitting mechanisms are intentionally
located within specific Zones in order to provide advantages in overall
transmission size, packaging efficiency, and reduced manufacturing
complexity. In the particular example shown in FIG. 5A, the
torque-transmitting mechanisms C1 and C2 are disposed within Zone A, the
torque-transmitting mechanism C3 is disposed within Zone D, and the
torque-transmitting mechanisms B1 and B2 are disposed within Zone F.

[0054]However, the present invention contemplates other embodiments of the
transmission 500 where the torque-transmitting mechanisms C1, C2, C3, B1,
and B2 are disposed in the other Zones. The feasible locations of the
torque-transmitting devices C1, C2, C3, B1, and B2 relative to the Zones
are illustrated in the chart shown in FIG. 5B. An "X" in the chart
indicates that the present invention contemplates locating the particular
torque-transmitting device in any of the referenced Zones.

[0055]With reference to FIG. 6A, still another embodiment of the
multi-speed transmission is indicated by reference number 600. The
transmission 600 includes the planetary gear sets 16, 18, 20, and 22 and
the torque-transmitting mechanisms C1, C2, C3, B1, and B2. The various
components and connecting shafts that are identical with the transmission
10 in FIG. 1A have the same numerical designation in FIG. 6A.

[0056]The transmission 600 includes the planetary gear sets 16, 18, 20,
and 22 longitudinally arranged in the following order from left to right:
20-18-16-22. Specifically, the planetary gear set 20 is disposed closest
to the wall 102, the planetary gear set 22 is disposed closest to the
wall 104, the planetary gear set 18 is adjacent the planetary gear set
20, and the planetary gear set 16 is disposed between the planetary gear
sets 18 and 22. The torque-transmitting mechanisms are intentionally
located within specific Zones in order to provide advantages in overall
transmission size, packaging efficiency, and reduced manufacturing
complexity. In the particular example shown in FIG. 6A, the
torque-transmitting mechanisms C1, C2, B1, and B2 are disposed within
Zone F, and the torque-transmitting mechanism C3 is disposed within Zone
A.

[0057]However, the present invention contemplates other embodiments of the
transmission 600 where the torque-transmitting mechanisms C1, C2, C3, B1,
and B2 are disposed in the other Zones. The feasible locations of the
torque-transmitting devices C1, C2, C3, B1, and B2 relative to the Zones
are illustrated in the chart shown in FIG. 6B. An "X" in the chart
indicates that the present invention contemplates locating the particular
torque-transmitting device in any of the referenced Zones.

[0058]With reference to FIG. 7A, still another embodiment of the
multi-speed transmission is indicated by reference number 700. The
transmission 700 includes the planetary gear sets 16, 18, 20, and 22 and
the torque-transmitting mechanisms C1, C2, C3, B1, and B2. The various
components and connecting shafts that are identical with the transmission
10 in FIG. 1A have the same numerical designation in FIG. 7A.

[0059]The transmission 700 includes the planetary gear sets 16, 18, 20,
and 22 longitudinally arranged in the following order from left to right:
20-22-18-16. Specifically, the planetary gear set 20 is disposed closest
to the wall 102, the planetary gear set 16 is disposed closest to the
wall 104, the planetary gear set 22 is adjacent the planetary gear set
20, and the planetary gear set 18 is disposed between the planetary gear
sets 22 and 16. The torque-transmitting mechanisms are intentionally
located within specific Zones in order to provide advantages in overall
transmission size, packaging efficiency, and reduced manufacturing
complexity. In the particular example shown in FIG. 7A, the
torque-transmitting mechanisms C1, C2, and C3 are disposed within Zone B,
the torque-transmitting mechanism B1 is disposed within Zone F, and the
torque-transmitting mechanism B2 is disposed within Zone E.

[0060]However, the present invention contemplates other embodiments of the
transmission 700 where the torque-transmitting mechanisms C1, C2, C3, B1,
and B2 are disposed in the other Zones. The feasible locations of the
torque-transmitting devices C1, C2, C3, B1, and B2 relative to the Zones
are illustrated in the chart shown in FIG. 7B. An "X" in the chart
indicates that the present invention contemplates locating the particular
torque-transmitting device in any of the referenced Zones.

[0061]The description of the invention is merely exemplary in nature and
variations that do not depart from the gist of the invention are intended
to be within the scope of the invention. Such variations are not to be
regarded as a departure from the spirit and scope of the invention.